Guest Editorial – Child Abuse Prevention 4/23/10

There are so many well known awareness campaigns and I don't discount the value of each and every one, but few people are aware that April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The blue ribbon serves as a reminder of the bruised and battered bodies of abused children.

Many ribbon campaigns don't become well known until a celebrity becomes involved or a prominent member of society is affected. What child of fame or prominence will have to suffer in order for our leaders and our media to spread the word of Child Abuse Prevention? How many more children will die before the social service agencies receive the staff and training that are needed?

Child abuse and neglect are preventable, yet each year in the United States, close to one million children are confirmed victims of child maltreatment. Child Abuse and neglect can have physical, psychological and behavioral consequences for children, families, and society that last lifetimes, if not generations.

Reporting abuse or neglect can get help for the family or even save a child's life.

If you are a parent who needs help or if you know a parent that needs help, call 1-800-CHILDREN or 1-800-4 A CHILD.

As an adult survivor of Domestic Violence and Child Abuse, I implore you to be aware, report and prevent.